Oak Wilt

Oak Wilt (Ceratocystis Fagacearm) is a fungal disease that effects the vascular system of the Red, Black, White, Pin, Burr oak species and can quickly kill an oak tree. Oak wilt is mostly found in eastern and central states including Michigan having infections sites in Spring Lake, Fruitport and Grand Haven Townships.

The fungus damages the Oak tree by causing the vascular system to become plugged and limits the tree's ability to move water and nutrients. Some initial signs of Oak wilt are leaves that turn brown from the outer edges in. These symptoms spread very quickly throughout the tree causing defoliation and ultimately death to the tree.

There are many different ways that Oak trees become infected. One way is from open wounds during the growing season. An example of this could be pruning at improper times and storm damage to the tree and mechanical injury due to vehicles or equipment. When an Oak tree receives a wound during the growing season, it allows picnic beetles/sap beetles to transport the fugal disease from an infected tree to the tree with the wound. The disease can also spread through root graft transmissions to neighboring trees. In the event that you have trees that are infected, it is crucial to hire a competent arborist with experience in the field of Oak Wilt to mitigate losses and control the spread of the disease.

If you have further question please contact us and we can set up a consultation with one of our arborist.